The surge in rainfall across South-Central Texas may have flooded roads and put drivers at risk across the San Antonio area, but it’s also brought hope to a body of water that’s been struggling for years. Locals are still urging caution, but the massive rains could soon bring two lakes outside the Alamo City back to life.

Lake McQueeney and Lake Placid, two man-made Guadalupe River reservoirs built to serve residents west of Seguin, were finally beginning to fill up after sitting empty for years. Now the rains have expedited their revival.

“The rain has caused the lake waters to rise much quicker than anticipated,” the nonprofit organization Friends of Lake McQueeney wrote on Tuesday, April 21. We know it’s exciting to see the lake full again, but SAFETY FIRST so please remember. 1. Flood flows are NOT safe for recreational activities like boating, floating, swimming, etc. 2. Be mindful of debris that may have been swept away with the quickly rising water. We recommend you save your boat prop for at least a week after the rain is done to let any debris sink or pass and reduce the likelihood of damage or injury.”

Lake Placid and Lake McQueeney were drained in 2021 and 2023, respectively, when it became clear their century-old dams were beyond repair. Friends of Lake McQueeney helped fund new dams that went into effect this year and were beginning to fill the respective lakes. The arrival of heavy rains on Monday, April 20, proved to be the saving grace.

Guadalupe Valley Lakes confirmed that Lake Placid reached normal pool elevation of 497.83 msl on Monday, two months after it began refilling on February 17. Now the focus will shift to fully refilling Lake McQueeney and improving the lakefront properties of its residents.

Friends of Lake McQueeney warned residents to be cautious around dead trees and limbs loosened by water flow. Residents are urged to avoid the waters until all debris is cleared from the storm.

“It is SO EXCITING to see our lake full again!!! Let’s all be safe and responsible in this adjustment period,” the group wrote on Facebook.